CONGRATULATIONS to the Tideswell twins Marie and Michelle who have much to celebrate.

Marie gained a BA degree in business and finance while working at the Ambulance Control Centre at Bransford and studying part time. Sister Michelle gained an HND in nursery nursing and is employed in the creche at Safeway. Both studied at the University College, Worcester and were pupils at Powick Primary School and the Chase High School, Malvern.

Sixteen adults and a young girl took part in a leisurely walk last Saturday morning in very warm sunshine. The walk started at the Halfway House, Bastonford, following paths towards Ridgeway Farm, encircling the old Powick hospital grounds, towards Broadfields Farm. The route continued across fields to Hospital Lane, over the main A449, via Bowling Green Road to the Three Nuns. Down towards the Retreat, behind Deadfields (so called after the dead of the Civil War who are reputed to be buried in that region) and back to the Halfway House. The walk was led by Andrew Leeming (and daughter Catherine), with Powick Parish Ramblers. Their next walk is tomorrow (Saturday) when the meeting place is Cradley Church, starting at 10am, for a leisurely walk of five miles.

Mrs Mollie Bailey of Colletts Green has recently returned from Switzerland, where she was one of a number of helpers and guides accompanying 24 guides from the 1st Leigh Guide Company. The holiday was spent at the Guide Centre "Our Chalet", in Adelboden. The party travelled by coach and included guide Roslyn Coles from Kings End Lane. The holiday was organised and led by Valda Cane guides with Leigh guides to celebrate the Millennium.

An exhibition of old local photographs and head stone history is being held at St Peter's Church, Powick from next Saturday (August 26) for four days until Tuesday inclusive. Entry is free, and light refreshments are available along with a warm welcome. The church is open 10am to 6pm daily.

Powick and Callow End branch of the Royal British Legion is holding a barbecue and grand draw on Bank Holiday Monday, August 28 at the Old Bush, Callow End. Draw tickets are now available. All welcome.